Voting For Community Board By-elections in The Whakatāne District Closes Tomorrow

By-elections are being held for the Galatea-Waiōhau Subdivision of the Murupara Community Board, where one vacancy remains, and the Tāneatua Community Board, with three spots to fill.

The vacancies arose following the 2025 triennial local body elections, when insufficient nominations were received to fill all positions.

Governance Services Manager Chirese Viljoen said voting is a way for residents to shape the future of their communities.

“Community boards give local people a strong voice in decisions that affect their towns and neighbourhoods. Voting ensures you are choosing the people you trust to represent your community’s needs, priorities, and aspirations.”

Whakatāne Mayor Nándor Tánczos said it was encouraging to see strong interest from candidates during the by-election process after earlier concerns about low nomination numbers.

“Initially, there was concern because there weren’t enough nominations to fully constitute one of the boards,” he said.

“But with the by-election, a number of people have stepped forward. That’s great. It shows enthusiasm and interest in the community.”

Mayor Tánczos said having multiple candidates standing gives residents a meaningful choice.

“It means people don’t just have to take what they’re given. They get to vote and choose between different candidates. Those standing have to justify to their communities why they want to represent them, and that’s a positive thing.”

He said full representation on community boards is important for local decision-making and advocacy.

Community boards play a crucial role in allocating funding to local initiatives, providing residents with the opportunity to apply for support and influence how funds are spent in their area.

They also act as a vital link between council and the community, with the ability to share local perspectives with the council and help communicate council plans, such as annual and long-term plans, back to residents.

“They’re people with deep roots in their communities,” Mayor Tánczos said.

“They have networks and connections that help ensure local voices are heard, and they help channel information both ways between council and the community.”

Completed voting papers can be dropped off at Whakatāne District Council Customer Services or the Murupara Library & Service Centre, or posted back using the prepaid envelope provided.

Voting closes at 12pm sharp on March 3.